Oregon State assistant football coaches Jim Paronto and Ed...

Paronto, who coached running backs and special teams, said, 'There was a difference of opinion and philosophy between a couple of staff members.

Dave was put in a precarious position and had to make some decisions.'

Sowash, who was assistant head coach and offensive line coach, said, 'It was a long season. The longest I ever put in. I decided to step back and see what my options are. I wish them well. Dave is a heck of a man.'

Kragthorpe had no comment other than announcing the resignations.

Assistant coaches work with one-year contracts that expire at the end of the calendar year. A 30-day notice is required for termination.

The resignations are the first staff changes in Kragthorpe's two years at OSU. Oregon State finished 3-8 this season.

Sowash was in his second tour at OSU. He was an assisant to Craig Fertig from 1976-79. Paronto was an assistant at Brigham Young with Kragthorpe for four years before becoming a member of the OSU staff.